Skipper and Construction Crew Member

Direction Recruitment; Opua; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vehicle

Competitive pay

Varied work

Team environment

Job summary

Direction Recruitment is seeking an experienced VesselSkipper / ConstructionCrewMember for roles in Northland's Bay of Islands. You will skipper company vessels and lead crew while supporting hands-on construction work on-site.

Strong safety focus and practical project delivery are essential. You’ll work with a skilled team, travel to remote sites, and enjoy varied days across marine operations and construction projects.

Qualifications

• Current Maritime New Zealand Skipper's Ticket is required.
• Current First Aid Certificate and Medical Certificate.
• Current Full New Zealand Driver Licence.
• Fluent English with excellent communication skills.
• Legal entitlement to work in New Zealand.
• Proven ability to lead, supervise, and mentor crew members.
• Experience operating construction machinery and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Skipper company vessels and ensure safety procedures are followed.
• Lead crew and coordinate on-site construction activities.
• Maintain vessel safety equipment and housekeeping.

Skills

Vessel operations leadership

Safety compliance

Communication

Team leadership

Project coordination

Tools

Construction machinery

Job description

VesselSkipper / ConstructionCrewMember

Do you love being out on the water and working in the stunning Bay of Islands and Northland region?

Our client is looking for an experienced skipper who enjoys a hands-on role and thrives in a practical construction environment? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Join a strong team, to deliver exciting projects across one of New Zealand's most beautiful regions.

Experienced Skipper & Construction Crew Member

We are seeking an experienced Skipper with proven expertise in vessel operations, crew leadership, safety compliance, voyage planning, and the day-to-day management of commercial vessels.

You will also be comfortable taking a hands-on approach by assisting with construction activities, site work, and practical project delivery, while taking direction from the Construction Foreman when required. You will bring strong leadership skills, a collaborative attitude, and a willingness to work alongside the crew to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard.

About the Role

You’ll play a key role in delivering construction projects while ensuring the safe operation and maintenance of company vessels. Safety, teamwork, and strong communication are essential to success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

Vessel Operations

• Safely and professionally skipper company vessels.
• Comply with all company Maritime Transport Operator procedures.
• Conduct regular vessel safety drills and crew training.
• Perform routine vessel maintenance and housekeeping.
• Complete vessel safety equipment inspections and ensure ongoing compliance.

Construction

• Operate a range of construction machinery and equipment.
• Carry out heavy lifting using machinery and/or with the assistance of the crew.
• Safely operate hand and power tools.
• Maintain, clean, and care for machinery, equipment, and tools.

Communication

• Keep the Operations Manager and Project Manager informed of project progress, issues, and daily activities.

About You

You are a practical, reliable team player with strong leadership skills and a genuine commitment to safety. You are comfortable working in remote locations and are willing to work away from home when required.

Essential Requirements

• Current Maritime New Zealand Skipper's Ticket.
• Current First Aid Certificate and Medical Certificate.
• Current Full New Zealand Driver Licence.
• Fluent English with excellent communication skills.
• Legal entitlement to work in New Zealand.
• Proven ability to lead, supervise, and mentor crew members.
• Experience operating construction machinery and equipment.

What We Offer

• Competitive remuneration based on experience and qualifications, plus a vehicle
• Varied and rewarding work across both construction and marine operations.
• Opportunity to work with a supportive and experienced team.
• A dynamic role where no two days are the same.

If you're an experienced skipper who enjoys hands-on construction work and is looking for a challenging and rewarding role in Northland, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note: All applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand, either as a New Zealand citizen, resident, or by holding a valid New Zealand work visa.

Due to New Zealand Immigration requirements, we are unable to support visa applications for this role.